Ference lost for six weeks

The Bruins have lost defenseman Andrew Ference for six weeks as the result of a groin injury suffered in the second period of Tuesday’s 4-1 win in Ottawa.The loss of Ference will test the team’s depth even further as the B’s have also recently been skating without defenseman Mark Stuart who broke his sternum on December 16.

Ference averages just over 20 minutes of ice time per-game. With Stuart still not set to return for at least another week, the Bruins could call on Johnny Boychuk to log more minutes.Since jumping into the lineup on December 5, Boychuk has averaged 17:38 of ice time per-game, building a plus-six, plus-minus rating while contributing two goals and five assists.

Rookie Adam McQuaid will also likely see more action. He played his first three NHL games Dec. 19-23, averaging 10:23 of ice time.The Bruins could also recall Andy Wozniewski who made two appearances with the team last month.

Stuart skated for the fourth time Wednesday. He is pleased with his progress recovering. ‘When you get hurt you appreciate being able to play a lot more and being able to be on the ice,” Stuart said. “It’s been a good last four days.”